The Lowdown on Stripes

The implementation of stripes in fashion has been a staple within the fashion industry for hundreds of years. In fact, it is impossible to pinpoint exactly when the pattern was first used, though records suggest that it was around the medieval times. Interestingly, western cultures tend to see striped clothing in a negative limelight, suggesting that it is the devil’s cloth. This is likely down to the fact that stripes were once worn by prisoners, criminals and clowns. Read on to find out more information…

Stripes Throughout History

Since stripes were associated with people that were on the wrong side of society, it wasn’t until Queen Victoria dressed her son in a sailor suit during a Royal Yacht boarding event that the clothing pattern was no longer associated with criminals and the lower-class. In fact, following that stripes became connected with the Navy and many higher class members of society started to adopt it into their style.

Horizontal vs Vertical

Many studies that have been carried out suggest that wearing horizontal stripes has a slimming effect on the figure whilst also making people appear much taller. This is all down to an illusion created by the pattern that tricks our eyes into thinking that the empty space is larger than it should be. On the other hand, vertical stripes are said to make people look much smaller in height, especially if you aren’t very tall to begin with. Due to this, they tend to be a favourite with women who are taller than average.

Thin vs Thick

Another style of stripes that can make people confused is whether the pattern is filled with thick block-like strips or thin line-like stripes. In fact, recent studies suggest that these worries are justified since more and more people find that wearing striped clothing with thick sections makes them look less flattering. On the other hand, more and more people find thinner sectioned stripes more befitting because they are said to draw attention to and ‘hug’ the figure.

Despite what these studies say the team here at 2forjoy believe that fashion is an expression of one’s personality. After all, stripes have been around for too long to be governed by the size and shape of our bodies! Here at 2forjoy we have a range of high quality slow fashion attire crafted with every kind of stripe you can think off. From our Two Tone Striped Jumper that uses thin horizontal stripes to our Slim Fit Navy Stripe T-Shirt that comes with a keyhole detail at the back, you are certainly spoilt for choice! To find out more information, get in contact with a member of the team today.